Garoppolo: Right destination for me is 'where they want to win'

Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo's days as a San Francisco 49er appear to be coming to an end.

The 30-year-old signal-caller answered questions Tuesday knowing it could be the last time he does so as a member of the NFC West club.

"I was talking to (general manager John Lynch) the other day about finding the right destination," Garoppolo said, according to The Athletic's David Lombardi.

He added: "I just want to go with a place where they want to win."

Garoppolo's fifth season in San Francisco ended when his team lost to the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Championship Game. He was acquired from the New England Patriots in a 2017 trade and later led the 49ers to Super Bowl LIV, where they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.

He dealt with multiple injuries in 2021, including both a broken thumb and a sprained shoulder late in the season. Garoppolo will take the next few days to figure out what to do about his thumb, though he hopes to avoid surgery.

Garoppolo threw for 3,810 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in the 2021 regular season while completing 68.3% of his pass attempts.

San Francisco is expected to move forward with Trey Lance as its starting quarterback after trading three first-round picks in order to select him in the 2021 NFL Draft.

"He has a bright future. I wish him nothing but the best," Garoppolo said.

However, Niners leadership hasn't ruled out a scenario where the veteran passer could return.

"There's a lot of good options there," 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said. "A lot of cards are on the table."

Garoppolo has one year left on the five-year, $137.5-million contract he signed in 2018. The Illinois native is set to earn close to $25.5 million in 2022, according to Spotrac.

In what could be interpreted as a goodbye, Garoppolo tipped his cap to Niners fans.

"It's been a hell of a ride, guys, and I love you guys. So, see ya," he said.